Kristen Bell Radiates Soft Minimalism in Christopher Esber’s Off-the-Shoulder LBD and Tiger’s Eye Sandals

Kristen Bell has always brought a mix of playfulness and polish to her red-carpet appearances. But at the Netflix FYC event for her hit Netflix series Nobody Wants This, which has just been renewed for a third season premiering in 2026, she took things in a completely different direction.

Gone were the bold colors or playful silhouettes Kristen is known for. Instead, she adopted a minimalist, monochromatic, and understated aesthetic. Some might call it too simple for a red-carpet moment, but I liked how it felt clean and modern.

Kristen Bell exudes effortless sophistication in an off-the-shoulder black Christopher Esber dress and minimalist strappy sandals as she poses with Adam Brody at Netflix’s Nobody Wants This FYC event at the Tudum Theater in Los Angeles on November 7, 2025 (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Her look centered around a minimalist Christopher Esber black dress paired with strappy sandals. Let’s take a closer look at her outfit.

Refined Minimalism: Kristen Bell Embraces Christopher Esber’s Shoulderless Cashmere Dress

Kristen wore a long black dress by Christopher Esber, which effortlessly combined elegance and warmth. The contrast between the top and bottom created the illusion of a two-piece ensemble, giving the look subtle depth despite its minimalist palette.

The top half was a soft, luxurious knit crafted from a cashmere–merino blend, wrapping her upper body like a high-end sweater. It featured an off-the-shoulder neckline that elegantly framed her shoulders and collarbones, while the long sleeves kept the look modest and balanced, adding structure without taking away from the relaxed feel of the neckline.

The dress had a drop-waist profile, which extended the length of the knit bodice. While I’m not a fan of the silhouette, I have to say it looked flattering on Kristen.

Kristen Bell goes the minimalist route, wearing a black off-the-shoulder dress with a cashmere–merino blend bodice and a silk skirt by Christopher Esber (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Below the knit bodice, the dress transitioned into a smooth, fluid silk skirt that moved with every step. I kept imagining the dress with a slightly shorter hem.

Kristen has a petite frame, so I thought a shorter length might have added more shape and definition. Still, the contrast between the cozy upper half and the airy lower half kept the look balanced and gave it a sense of movement.

Modern Ease: How Kristen Styled Her Hair, Makeup, and Accessories

Kristen didn’t wear elaborate jewelry—no necklace, not even rings. She was going for minimalism to keep the off-the-shoulder neckline clean, but a few dainty accessories would’ve added a bit of sparkle. Even something as simple as a delicate chain or a cuff bracelet would’ve somehow elevated the look.

Her loose, wavy hair was beautiful, but I kept imagining how striking an updo with her hoop earrings would’ve been. It could’ve added structure and made the neckline stand out even more, but her relaxed hairstyle did match the outfit’s low-key softness.

Kristen Bell highlights her features with soft pink makeup and accessorizes with just a pair of hoop earrings, hidden beneath her tousled waves (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

Quiet Luxury in Every Step: Kristen’s Christopher Esber ‘Doma’ Sandals

For footwear, Kristen chose black Christopher Esber “Doma” sandals, which added visual interest to the minimalist dress. Made in Italy from smooth cow leather, the sandals featured slim, rope-like straps running diagonally across the foot. They also boasted a strap across the toes, with a tiger’s-eye stone accent adding a touch of earth-toned shine.

The sandals had rounded toes and slim ankle straps that offered support, all set on modest 2.75-inch heels. While boots could have pushed Kristen’s outfit into a cooler, more autumn-ready mood, the sandals kept everything airy and relaxed.

Kristen Bell completes her laid-back but chic ensemble with summery black sandals by Christopher Esber featuring a strappy upper with a tiger’s eye stone accent (Credit: Dave Starbuck / Future Image / Cover Images)

From Playful to Polished: Kristen Bell’s Evolving Red-Carpet Style

Over the years, Kristen Bell has refined her fashion identity—balancing approachable charm with red-carpet sophistication. Whether embracing bold color, sleek minimalism, or a hint of Hollywood glam, her shoe choices consistently reflect her personality and evolving aesthetic.